Turkish Dynasty

The "Turkish Dynasty" (406-) was a dynasty that ruled the Eastern Roman Empire/Byzantine Empire during the 5th century AD. Starting with Emperor Jovinus the Philosopher, the dynasty was named for the fact that its members were all Turkish (some have unknown origins).

History
In 406 AD, Governor Jovinus the Philosopher of Constantinople was made the new Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire following the death of Luca the Builder, a Serb. Jovinus was born into a family from present-day Turkey, and was the progenitor of the "Turkish Dynasty". The rule of the Turks saw the Eastern Roman Empire survive the decay of the Western Roman Empire and conquer all of the Western Empire's former lands from rebels, in addition to holding off attacks from barbarian tribes such as the Berbers, Kingdom of Baetica, and Alemanni.

The Turks' foreign policy was both defensive and offensive, but interestingly, they also pursued a change in culture. The rulers of the empire were all followers of Christianity, and although they were not related, they were all coincidentally Turkish. Marcellus the Liar and Orestes were of unknown origins, but Augustulus the Philosopher (Orestes' successor) was a Turk, continuing the tradition. In addition to being Turkish Christians, the Turks were also enthusiasts with games in colisseums. They hosted games involving chariot racing, athletic competitions, and gladiators; in some cities, to appease public order, they decided to hold games every day. Although these games were costly, their empire sat on top of mountains of gold.